The In's and Out's of CD's life!

Wowzers! It's been years.

2011-05-19T21:18:00.004-03:00

What more than what's written in the title can I really say? It's been years since I've blogged. Actually I believe my last blog talks about how much stuff I had on the go at that time and how if I survived how I would blog again.

Well....I'm alive.

Hopefully there isn't anyone who I haven't maintained contact with, who actually used to read this, and who is now having a mild heart attack because of my resurrection.

Life has changed A LOT since that last blog. Where do I begin? Well, I'm no longer at the same job, I'm no longer in school, I'm no longer the partying single girl, but....I am much happier.

Ironically, two years almost to the date after writing that last blog post I found myself entering into a stage in my life that I must say, has been the best so far. September 2010, found me new a career venture, new opportunites, new challenges (some in hindsight have changed my life for the better) and the best part, a new relationship.

First and foremost, here goes the story about "the best part". Who would've known that because I spent years chasing what I thought I wanted and what I now know was so very very wrong for me, I delayed figuring out what was perfect for me. I have often thought, if only I was wiser then, where would I be now? Where would my relationship with Ken be now? But, you know what....I probably wouldn't have changed a thing. And I don't think Ken would have either. At least, I hope not....

In March 2010, Ken, this adorable guy at work, asked me out for supper. I remember distinctly leaving the restaurant that night thinking to myself, "this is the best first date I've ever been on!! Wait....was this a first date?" Ken easied me into the idea of being truly courted and cared for, which believe me was hard for a woman who was used to be so independant and self-reliant. And since that first date and some amazing moments thereafter, Ken has become the person that I couldn't imagine spending my life without. The best part - my friends and family adore him almost as much as I do. True bliss!

Now, the less mushy, more hard hitting life details. My career since 2008 has made a few detours, hit a couple speedbumps and pretty much done everything but take me for a magic carpet ride. Was it expected, no. Has it been difficult, yes. Have I learned anything, absolutely. And in the end, isn't that what it's all about?

Having quickly reflected on where I've been, what I've done, who I've met since my last post in 2008, all I can condense it down to is I've not only aged, but I've grown up. I've not only changed, but I've lived. What I saw as failures, where sometimes successes in disguise. What I experienced as hurt, was actually what I needed to find the pleasure. What has happened to me, I'm grateful for the opportunity, the lessons and the character it has given me.

So where to now? Who knows. Tomorrow awaits.

PS - For those still here, it won't be two years before I blog again.

Work, school, work, work, work

2008-09-03T20:23:00.003-03:00

Woah, what have I got myself into? Day one of school has shed some light on how things may be a bit stressful for the next 6 weeks (2 weeks especially). Right now, I'm working my full time job, going back to school (taking Business Admin) and working a contract job. The contract job is over on the 18th, so it's just super stressful for the next couple weeks.

Class started today and it looks like it may be pretty interesting. Today was a little too basic for me but, classes don't really start until Monday. Since Thursday is my busy school day, its my day off from work. I have some campus crap that I have to do tomorrow (ie: buy books, get my ID card) then, I'm veggin the whole rest of the day. My brain needs a day off. I've been roped into doing work on my contract job whenever I've had a down moment (including my supper break tonight from my real job) but, I refuse to let that happen tomorrow. I may have to get someone to come in and hide my laptop.

What's more interesting in my life besides my crazy schedule right now? Umm...that would be nothing. That's how fun I am. And franky, I'm too tired to think anymore so this pathetic excuse for a blog is going to end. I'll blog again after the 18th to let you know I survived!

Vacation

2008-07-21T22:28:00.002-03:00

So, I've quickly learned that the one thing I love about vacation is that it's completely your time, so you can do whatever you please.

And that's exactly what I've been doing for the past week. No major excursions, no whirl-wind tours. Just kicking back relaxing good times. Lots of time by the pool; a couple days at the beach; an afternoon road trip with a friend; drinks, good food and more than likely, a few pounds.

I can live with the few pounds. Relaxing for a week was totally worth it. Sure there are a couple things that I wish I could've squeezed in there while I had the time off. But, alas they didn't happen. Some things that did happen though made the lost items seem easier to deal with.

And....I got to spend a couple days of my vacation with my favorite guy in the whole wide world - KAYNE! He's so adorable!!

But, back to work tomorrow....back to reality. All I can hope is that tomorrow is an easy day at the office. Sigh. Why can't every day be vacation?

Slacker

2008-05-22T22:07:00.002-03:00

So I'm posting because Qortnee has put me to shame lately with the updates on her site. I feel like a pathetic slacker. But really...I have nothing to blog about.

It's almost my birthday...therefore I'm almost a geezer. Actually, it honestly is a bit weird for me. I've never been one of those people to set out a life plan in stone for myself - because I always felt that was setting yourself up for disappointment and really, with the external things that can often be disappointing in life, why set up an internal barometer too. Don't confuse this with not having goals...I just have never mentally established any "by the time I'm 25 I want to have...." But, since I'm now 2 years shy of the big 3-0, I'm starting to think that maybe I should rethink this theory.

A person I knew in high school had these milestone markers for certain ages in life. As much as I thought then she was crazy, from what I understand she had achieved many of the items on her list. Obviously we haven't kept in touch, so I don't know if she's achieved them "on time" or not, but nonetheless, her system apparently worked for her.

I still don't know if I can say that by the time I'm 35 I want to be at this point in life or have achieved this. How do I know that what I want at 28 is what I'll want at 30, 40 or 50? Life is full of lessons and if we put ourselves on a specific path does that put us at risk for missing unexpected pleasures? What if I map my life out and then someone or something comes into my life that makes me tempted to walk down a path other than the one that I had mapped out? Do I stick to my ideal age-oriented goals or do I risk it all for something that could potentially make me happier? Let's face it, I know myself well enough to know that I'd probably take the latter. I've always had a special place in my heart for the last line of "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost.

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."

I will always be the type of person who wants to know that my choices make a difference. Whether it's a personal difference or one more broad. All I know that that choices I make in life, regardless of how they are perceived by others have to make me happy and make a difference in my own life. If I had a mapped out plan that said that by X-age I want to have this specific thing accomplished, I want to know that if this new, interesting adventure came along, that I'd be willing to risk veering from my plan if it meant a truly happier Crystal.

So, I guess, this rant and basically typing my thoughts has made me firmly establish that I can't map out my life in such a structured way. Afterall, "in the book of life, the answers aren't in the back" - Charlie Brown. My map?? By the end of my life I hope that I have made choices that made me a stronger, more intelligent woman who is happy and who has spent a lifetime loving and being loved.

Well...I guess I had something to blog about afterall. xo

Choo choo trains and horsies...

2008-03-16T22:01:00.004-03:00

Well, although the title of this blog may not give it away totally...I got to spend the weekend with Kayne. Mom, Chris and I went up to Moncton for the weekend, met up with a few family members and Kayne! We spent the weekend at Crystal Palace and Kayne had a blast. He'd wake up each morning and after barely opening his eyes he'd say "swimming, horsies, choo choo train!" That meant his agenda for the day consisted of Chris taking him swimming in the pool (which you could see from our hotel room window) then spending the remainder of the day on the train and merry-go-round rides in Crystal Palace.

As much as I got kinda tired of playing on baby rides for 2 days, I loved spending time with Kayne! Also, in true Crystal form, I stole Mom away from my aunts for a bit and the two of us got in some much needed retail therapy. I think I really needed a weekend away...a change of scenery for a bit. And being with Kayne truly makes me appreciate the small things in life: holding little hands, surprised looks, genuine happiness, cuddles, the list is endless really......

Here's a cute picture from the weekend. Oh, I miss him already!!

Ok ok....enough nudging

2008-02-13T20:05:00.002-04:00

So I've heard on a few occasions "October was a long time ago" and you guys are right I have been at the top of the list for slackers in the blog department for quite awhile. But, sometimes I feel like I just don't have anything to blog about. But, regardless....to please the masses (ok the masses probably only consist of the 2 people I know frequent this page), here goes a blog....

Since October of course a lot of things have changed. Living at home is often a challenge. (Not that I don't love my Mom to pieces) I had hoped that living back at home would help me to save some money for my first house. It hasn't done much of that thus far (a few personal things has given my money a new home other than my bank account) and unexpected expenses have occured, ie: my laptop decided it wanted to quit our relationship and I was forced to move on. That's ok...when it sees the new prettier Dell in my life it'll realize how easy it was to replace him. (Yes, I refer to some of my items of technology on a relationship basis because my laptop, tv, dvr and Wii are the things that I spend the most time with). coughlosercough. There, I've said it for you.

I've tried to interject some time in there for real human beings, but I've been stressed to the max lately and there are very few human beings that I have the patience for right now. (Pathetic to say outloud, but since I'm typing it, it's not so pathetic) There are the few friends who have been steady as a rock and have taken way more crap off of me than they need to sometimes. But, if we can't just be ourselves even when we're hating the world, with friends than can you ever really consider them honest-to-goodness real friends?

Umm...what else. I'm flying to Ottawa next week and I'm so excited. I have always considered Ottawa a home away from home for me. Since Dad moved back, I really didn't think I'd have a reason or opportunity to get my yearly visits to the city. Oh how I was wrong! In September the Canadian Conservation Institute brought me to the city for a symposim and now Canada Council for the Arts in bringing my in to do some work for them. Sometimes I am still shocked at how often I get hired by various organizations to travel and participate in meetings. I'm flattered don't get me wrong but am still surprised that they're hiring lil ole me. Everytime I get a phone call for another contract job I think of how Martha has often said that I have a golden resume. Maybe I really am a professional grown up. Pfft!!!

Ok, I can't think of anything else. I'm dying to take a long hot bath (I got this pesky cough which I need to shake before I travel). So, an anti-cold bath is my goal, comfy pjs and crawl in bed to watch tv is my plans for the night. I was suppose to do some reading tonight, but I'm in way too good of a mood to spend the evening working. So instead, I'm goofing off and watching a new favorite tv show. Weeeee!

Love and hugs!

Wowzers...

2007-10-25T19:34:00.000-03:00

Sorry, sorry, sorry. I've been a major blog slacker.

Things have been super busy. I'm in the process of moving and I realize how much I hate having stuff spread over two places. I so can't wait to have my own house someday so I don't have to keep bobbing from place to place which never really are my own.

I'm cranky today (I probably shouldn't really be blogging then), but I think it's because I am so completely over tired. There was a conference at work for the past 4 days, which I was on the steering committee for and I put in an extra 18+ hours to see that everything went smoothly.

I'm due for a vacation - which I'm taking a day on Monday to rest after the official moving date. Already I'm looking forward to it and I'm thinking about making a spa appointment for at least some kind of forced relaxation that day.

I know...lame update....but at least it's a blog. Tired Crystal is going to make popcorn and veg out for a bit. I'll blog again to let you know how the move went.

Mermuys-Ball Wedding

2007-08-20T21:48:00.000-03:00

Well....no question about it, Tasha made one beautiful bride! I was so excited to see her and I have to say, I have never seen her look so amazing!

I ran into Fahie Friday evening at Cows which was fab - got to do some shopping and catching up with her before the busy events of Saturday. We then met up Saturday morning (I was the first one who got to meet her new hot bf, Ed) and headed to Tasha's wedding. We gossiped a lot on the drive to the wedding (Ed was so great to put up with us with zero complaints) and were taking bets on whether or not we'd cry.

The reception and dance were a blast - one of the best times I've had in a long time. Hanging out with a few Vanier girls was exactly what I needed this summer! Jon, the new Mr. Mermuys, is fantastic. Seeing as how the receiving line post wedding was the first chance I got to meet him, he had pretty big expectations to live up to. Qortnee, April - no worries - this guy is the perfect match for Tash. And as I realized during my completely inappropriate reception speech (no intentions of the inappropriate aspect - but that was totally caused by the revelation ...April, you would've been proud), Tasha and Jon are in fact a total match...does it get any better than a former 'Spermuys' marrying a Ball?!?!?! PERFECT! I know!

Well, all I can say is I hope that the new Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Ball looked so happy together and I hope that happiness continues for years. Q, April - missed you ladies. I think we all said it at one point in time. But hopefully your Calgary experience will shape up to be exactly what you two need and deserve! Best wishes on job interviews!! I think about ya daily! Much love xoxo

(I'll try to add a photo later....blogger is being a huge pain tonight!)

Wowzers

2007-07-19T21:41:00.001-03:00

Well, I just caught up on all Qortnee's new blogs and I thought...holy geez, its been forever since I've blogged. Well...what to update on....since I've blogged last, the bath salts are doing really well - which is super cool. It makes me excited to see things I make actually sell to someone other than my mom. HEHE

I also spent some fun time with the girls and went to see Nickelback on Canada Day. What a great show!! I'm soooo glad I decided a few days before the event that I had nothing better to do and that I should go. Lineup: State of Shock, Staind, Hedley, Finger Eleven, Daughtry, Default, and Nickelback. It was a fantastic day! I so wish I was headed to see Aerosmith this weekend in PEI (especially since Marcus has dropped not so subtle hints that I should go and camp with her). But, now I couldn't even if I wanted to. There's a Mi'kmaq Heritage Dinner happening Saturday night which I have been asked to attend (and just recently found out also to speak at) because our Chief is unavailable. I just hope they won't think I'm weird when I refuse to eat the wild game they prepared for the "traditional Mi'kmaq" component of it. Yes, I'm cool like that.

Ummm...what else is new on the home front? Q...just to let you know, I know how you're feeling about weighing pros and cons lately. It seems like there's change in the air....I feel it coming. I've been saying for awhile, I want out of apartment lifestyle, but I can't really afford to much more right now. My dream? To buy a house, live in it for a couple years while fixing it up, sell it and continue to climb the real estate ladder. If only life was that simple. If it was...I'd throw in the dream of owning a brand new black Toyota Tacoma and 4-wheeler too.

Other than that, I've RSVP'd to Spermie's wedding (Natasha Mermuys for those of you who are thinking something completely different just by the name Spermie). I've booked my hotel room - finding a room in Charlottetown in the summer for a decent price is totally retarded. GRRR!!! And booked my vacation time around that weekend. I want to go over to Cavendish while I'm on the island - it's my summer retreat and it wouldn't be summer without a visit to the boardwalk.

A couple of weeks ago I met up to an old friend for coffee which is probably my favorite thing about still living in my hometown. Seeing friends when they return either for a visit or to move back. Danny was my closest friend in early high school and it's funny how years apart sometimes doesn't change a thing. I truly forgot how well this guy knew me. One look into my eyes and he could read me like no one else I've ever met. It's funny and I know we all do it - and by working with the public on a daily basis I know we do - but the most common response to "How are you today" is always "Fine, thanks". Well, I had one of those moments with Danny and he looked into my eyes and said ok, I don't know if I'm more offended that you're hiding something, or that you just lied to my face. I was shocked....but half truths don't work with someone who knows you so well.

It kind of creeped me out, especially considering I haven't seen Danny in probably about nine years. But, I'm a strong believer in fate, and I know that a friend like that was exactly what I was needing at that moment. I needed a friend who had zero biases to neutrally weigh-in on some ideas/thoughts/issues that I've been tossing back and forth either alone or with only those who are nearest and dearest to me. I know all my closest friends are always looking out for my best interest, but when they are that close to me on a regular basis and are privy to my everyday concerns/issues/discussions, their opinions are going to be swayed (and rightfully so). But I needed a sounding board that wouldn't hesitate on the truth - afterall, what does Danny have to lose by pointing out the good and bad? It was a great coffee date, that I didn't want to ever end. I started looking forward to our next meeting the moment I hugged him goodnight.

Speaking of hugging goodnight. That's exactly what I need right now. I'm overtired, cold (wearing a tank top and shorts while blogging on my balcony tonight probably wasn't the best decision), and for lack of better terms sooky. And I know myself well enough to know it all boils down to the overtired aspect. I have had zero energy lately. I sleep well during the evenings, I think, but the moment I take a breather from work (ie: on my lunch break or right at the end of the day) I'm out like a light. My dad hooked me up with some energy product he's trying right now. I'm giving it a whirl tomorrow. Normally energy crap makes me jiddery because of the caffine in it, which my body isn't used to. This is apparently all natural. Can't hurt to try. Watch out work - Crystal may be on a ride of her own tomorrow. For now, the ride is docking itself in my bed.

Ciao!

Does anyone actually read this?

2007-06-09T16:07:00.000-03:00

I haven't blogged in awhile - but it doesn't seem to be much of a big deal. Well Qortnee hasn't yelled at me yet for a new post and as far as I know, she's one of the only ones who read this.

Well...what's new? Not a whole lot realistically. I've finally put some time into doing artistic ventures for the gift shop at my work. The manager has put an order in with me for silk scarves -which I really need to get on. But, I distracted her with putting a line of homemade bath salts scented with either Sweetgrass or Sage. (Thanks to Stephen - my creative technical genius who once again felt bad for me when I msg'd him in utter frustration when I couldn't make labels for my product and he made amazing ones.) Someone actually came in the store yesterday apparently and commented how they wanted to carry my line in their store as well. Sweet deal!

Umm...other than that - I've started my summer routine of not doing much and swimming. HEHE Life is rough. Speaking of not doing much - my tummy is growling....maybe I should cook myself something to eat. A real meal tonight is on the menu...surf and turf with roasted potatoes. Oh! I can barely wait!

Home and still tired...LOL

2007-05-10T17:47:00.000-03:00

Well I made it home safe and sound and am back into a normal work week. Actually it's a bit less than normal because I had today off (and super thankful for). I had my wisdom teeth pulled today and as much as it would have been wonderful to get out and enjoy the day off, my dentist suggested I take advil as the freezing wore out (he suggested two extra strength - I only took one) and knowing how I react to medication, I actually spent the entire afternoon sound asleep on my couch.

Hopefully the weather will be just as good this weekend - maybe I'll take a lil road trip and get out in the outdoors and enjoy some of the sunshine. Sigh....the weekend. I'm so just looking forward to it. A couple days to totally chill - no official plans except maybe a lunch date with my friend Kate in Hali.

It's almost 6pm. Enough of sitting indoors since it's so nice. I'm going out to my patio to work on a drawing. Ciao. Hope you go to enjoy today's sunshine.

Whatta week....

2007-04-29T22:32:00.000-03:00

Uggh....I'm absolutely exhausted and it seems like I'm only half way through this crazy spurt. So, last week I get a random call from the Dept. of Canadian Heritage in Ottawa asking me to come and work for them for a few days. I agreed thinking it was a great opportunity for my career and now I'm sitting in a hotel room in Ottawa preparing for a three-day meeting where I'm sitting on an "Expert Committee".

But, what a process to get where I am tonight. Monday I started reviewing grant applications. (That's what the government has dubbed me an expert in) I had 23 applications to review for funding of Aborignal museums and heritage centres across Canada. Seems simple - except each one is about 30 pages and I had to do this on top of my regular work load. So, I spend the first part of the week reading on average for 2 hours in the evening after work. Then Thursday hits me like a ton of bricks when I go into a three-day conference. Not a big deal - except I had 7 applications left to read and zero spare time. I became little miss anti-social and instead of chit chatting during breaks, I buried myself in paperwork.

So, I got through the three day conference (working until 9:30pm on Thursday and 11pm on Friday) - skipping meals so I could help organize and read applications. Wonderful. Attended Saturday's session where I got elected a Board of Director for the Federation of Nova Scotia Heritage. Which, I think is super cool and even I am impressed that at my age I was asked to serve as a B.o.D. Ran home after the session to pack and fall asleep while watching a movie - brilliant my only free night and I sleep through it. Got up bright and early Sunday moring to head to Saltscapes Expo (my favorite of all the tradeshows I do because after I spend time networking, I then move on to sampling the GREAT Nova Scotia wines, food and beer). HAHA (picture of me, Hope from Tidal Bore Rafting and Devin from Central Nova Tourist Assoc. attached)

Left the show and jumped on a plane. To no surprise, I was asleep before we left the runway in Halifax and woke up as we were hitting the runway in Ottawa. (Thankful for that power snooze). Now....I am procrastinating I believe I actually have one more application to read and an article to write for a local newspaper and my deadline is tomorrow. Uggghh. My career is keeping me busy and I love that....but I would really like to get a little bit of sleep and rest. Just a suggestion.

Cayo Coco, Cuba

2007-04-02T23:02:00.000-03:00

Mom and I are slowly recovering from a wild and crazy vacation where we spent a week relaxing on the beach and sleeping probably way too much. HAHA! Ok, so we're slowly trying to come back to reality of getting up each day and having a purpose of more than just beach, food and sleep. Obviously vacation was rough.

Cayo Coco, I must say, is the most beautiful place I've ever been. The beach is absolutely incredible with sand like flour, turquoise water and a sun that shines 330 days a year. I've always said that I'd never go back to the same place when I travel - I want to see and do new things. Well, this place totally changed my mind on that. Will I ever go to Cayo Coco again? It may actually be hard to convince me to try any different Caribbean destination.

Now it's time to ease myself back into the mindset of working - luckily I chose my vacation the week before a 4 day weekend, so that helps. I need to find out how to land a job being the tester of various resorts and spas. That would be a job that I would enjoy. Sure, I'd miss my bed like I did all week in Cuba. But if someone wants to pay me to travel and test the services of various accommodations/attractions - I'd give up the bed for periods of time. Would a person who has a job like that take a vacation and stay home for a week? HAHA Interesting thought?!?!

Okay...here's a pic. My favorite from the trip. It's like a postcard. Wanna go to Cayo Coco?

Updated look

2007-03-18T22:06:00.000-03:00

I decided that it was time to give myself an updated look. I still don't know how I feel about it totally....but I'm giving it some time and we'll see how long the colour stays around.

I have inserted a picture from St.Patty's Day last night. I went to The Pond - a local pub - where my favorite local band played. Broke on Payday (www.brokeonpayday.ca). I'll give them a little shout out. We have a blast everytime we listen to/party with these boys. If ya ever get a chance to check them out - do so.

Other than that...things are the same here. I was suppose to study today - I'm writing an exam this week to be a certified Tourism Visitor Information Counsellor. Pass mark is 81....kinda nervous. But, not nervous enough to study! It's all because I put off my regular tutoring night until today - so I got distracted in someone else's school work, that I put off my own. Now I'm totally not in the mood...grrr. I guess I'll just have to devote myself to some serious study time in the next couple of days.

Alright....that's it for now. I'm bored of blogging. I should go to bed. But, here's the picture from last night. Special thanks to Stephen for helping me make my great shirt. Whatta good friend.

Day off

2007-03-09T21:57:00.001-04:00

So, today was the most unique day off ever. I have vacation booked for the end of the month and said to mom last night, "I either want to go far away on vacation, or no where." When I woke up this morning, I thought...I really need to go away. Sure....I can't afford it. But, Mastercard and Visa area already such big fans of me, might as well throw them another bone.

So, I gave mom a little call and asked if she would be interested in running away with me. What was she doing at the time? That's right...looking up vacation packages! So, we made a plan to meet at a local travel agent where we walked in the door and booked a trip to Cuba!

That's right...CD is taking a much needed week and running away to the surf and sand of Cayo Coco at the end of the month. Yeehaw. If only every day off lead to a week on a tropical beach, I'd be the happiest person alive. At least for today, I'm pretty darn excited!

Can I manage this?

2007-02-17T09:25:00.000-04:00

Okay....as promised last week, let's see if I can manage to muster up a real blog.

So, I spent a fair portion of this week incredibly sick. Not fun, let me tell you. Normally I'm a trooper and can work through/deal with a itty bitty cold. But, no....not this time. I don't know what this virus is that's going around, but it kicked my butt. Last Saturday I had a bit of a cough coming on. Not a big deal - made it hard to sleep at night but nothing that a little cough medicine wouldn't cure. Or so I thought. When I did arise from the minimal hours of sleep I had on Sunday, I had no voice. Lovely.

I got up Monday am, headed to the office only to walk in the door and realize that my body was saying "What are you thinking? Get me back in bed!" So, I did exactly that. Spend that day sleeping and sooking to Mom with a complete inability to move off my couch. Why is it that no matter how old we get, Moms will always know just that specific dose of TLC that is needed to make us feel better?

Tuesday - no change. I dragged my butt back to work on Wednesday and let me tell you, those 3 days working felt like the longest ever! Today - a week later - I still wake up with a cough, a bit of chest congestion, and a voice that still decides to play a disappearing game after at the end of the day.

But, down time did give me ample time to do a few things, like watch movies. "Blood Diamond" was one of the films that I caught this week. I have to say...highly recommended. Leo with a fake accent, not so wild about. But Djimon Hounsou once again blew me away. I fell in love with this guy's on-screen roles in the film, "In America". Not much has changed since my original viewing of him. Sorry Leo, your supporting actor stole the show. Not only was that portion good - but I truly appreciate when filmmakers bring to light a topic which most people would much prefer to brush under the rug. I pity the poor fool who ever decides that he wants to marry me. Why? Because now, I'll only insist on Canadian diamonds.

I also got to watch "An Inconvenient Truth". Gore, not so much a compelling actor, haha. But a wonderfully put together documentry. Gore does a good job at making the point heard and making reality hit home. Facts and figures don't lie people. It's being dubbed as, "a necessary film" and I don't disagree. It reminded me of an American Indian Proverb which I happen to love and honestly try to take into consideration: "We don't inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." Society is often too mesmerized with the glitz and glam of Hollywood that as a geek, I love when someone's research is endorsed and they can take the bigger picture and make it something that even the average Joe can walk away from thinking, 'how can I help'. Global warming.....I hope to someday have kids and I want a world for them to live in. I know I'm seriously thinking, how can I help. Check out the film, read the facts, I bet you will be asking yourself the same question.

And to add another film of higher learning, I also checked out "School for Scoundrels". HAHA. Okay, not so much higher learning....but Jon Heder (better known as 'the guy who played Napoleon Dynamite') does go to school in the film - there is learning involved. This movie isn't by any means the most educational film I've ever seen, but good for a stupid laugh. Ok, the repeated shots of Jon in tighty whiteys, did make me happy.

Okay - different from my regular blog format. But, nonetheless, a blog as promised. Hope you're having a good day :)

I know, I know...it's shameful Qortnee!

2007-02-11T00:29:00.000-04:00

All I can say is, at least it hasn't been a full month. Sure, I'm just days off...but I'm still not at that terrible point of more than a month between blogs.

I really have nothing elaborate to blog about. That's the problem. All of my time gets absorbed into work (the other supervisor was on vacation for 3 weeks - so dealing with things by myself made things a little hectic sometimes). I have also started tutoring someone in first year English; which means I've been spending some of my time reading things for someone else's assignments.

When I'm not doing either of those two jobs, I've been sleeping/cleaning/battling with my landlord - you know...all the fun things that life entails. Being grown up is great sometimes. So, tonight I punked out on going to see Shameless and instead spent the night in watching movies all by my lonesome. Right now Spanglish is playing. I needed a "already seen these movies, no brainer film" type of night. So far, so good. Even squeezed in some time to paint my nails. I am such a girl sometimes.

Ok, Q....I'm bored, my back hurts and I'm tired. I know you want to kick me in the junk right now. But, I've blogged. I'll think of something real to blog about and post again soon!

Edmonton and potentially too much time to think.

2007-01-14T16:36:00.000-04:00

So, I'm back safe and sound from Edmonton. I had a great time despite having spent approximately 13 hours on a plane over the duration of 2 days - especially where half of that time was spent with only my mind and my ipod to distract me from the mundane happenings of airline travel. That's right ladies and gents, CD suffered through a flight, practically across country, without the convience of a TV. It felt so retro (minus the whole Ipod aspect). But (sigh)...I survived.

I did get a chance to venture around the West Edmonton Mall for a few hours during the week though. I actually got brave and said to myself, "Live a little Crystal. Brave Edmonton transit. Worst case scenerio...well let's not go there. Just do it." So, I did. Sure I encountered some crazies, but what's life without adventure?

Speaking of adventures. I've decided it's time to start a Crystal adventure. It's a new year and things have taken a huge change for me recently. I need to start figuring some stuff out in my life. For instance, what I want, where I want to be, what I need to make me happy. And of course, coming hand-in-hand with that is, what I need to let go of. Shakespeare wrote in As You Like It, "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts..." (Act 2, Scene 7)

I've been playing many parts, as we all do in life. But, how many parts were actually for the betterment of my own personal character? I don't really know. So, I've decided to take a step back and start to examine the things I do and the choices I make and ask myself, am I doing this for me? Like the constant argument for healthy eating is, our body is not a trash can so why do we continue to put garbage in it? Well, I've learned this weekend that that should apply to our heads and our hearts too.

I know, I know...I'm getting all philosophical and you're thinking....what is Crystal on and get this poor kid off this ride. Don't worry, I'll get off....as soon as I figure out which direction this ride needs to be going. Afterall, as the nationally worshiped telvision guru once said, "As you become more clear about who you really are, you'll be better able to decide what is best for you - the first time around." - Oprah Winfrey

Thanks Oprah, thanks. Let the journey begin.

Happy 2007

2007-01-05T17:18:00.000-04:00

Well the holidays have of course come and gone make us wondering, what was all that fuss for? I had a nice relaxing vacation - forced to spend a lot of it on the couch because I got sick. But the forced down time did give me plenty of opportunity to watch Season 2 of Lost...which turned into me watching the aired episodes of Season 3, starting Season 1 of Medium, and being lent Seasons 1 through 3 of Sopranos. Yes, I am a slave to television and I'm not afraid to admit it.

I head to Edmonton next week to sit on a committee to evaluate a certification process. I honestly dreaded the thought of going - because I hate sitting on a plane for hours, I get so bored. But, the more I learn about this experience the more excited I am to go. We will be staying in a beautiful inn...which I absolutely can't wait to see firsthand. (www.unionbankinn.com) I also will be spending an evening touring one of Edmonton's Heritage Parks, which should be fun. And I touched base with Jake tonight and I may get to spend an evening with him. It will be nice to see old friends all the way across the country.

Well....nothing fab, but that's all I got to say right now. QORTNEE BLOG ALREADY, WOULD YOU!

I love Christmas

2006-12-17T10:24:00.000-04:00

Apart from a couple minor items for mom and dad - I am done my Christmas shopping! Woohoo. I really hate the malls at this time of the year. I am not a very patient person, but the mad rush of consumers during the last few pre-Christmas shopping weekends would test the patience of the calmest person in the world.

As you'll notice, I got a little background spirit going on in the form of tunes. (The video is way down at the bottom of the page - check it out, it's got some important background highlights). I tried to archive some of those older posts so that the video wouldn't be so far down there - but alas, I couldn't figure out how. So if any of you know how I can archive my blogs so only this month's appear in the main screen, please let me know!

Anywho....the Trans Siberian Orchestra is who this song is by. My best friend pointed them out to me recently - he's into the rock/metal aspect of the band. Whereas, I'm totally into an orchestra, that totally has a contemporary feel, playing classical music. Every year I try to see some sort of performance in December that gets me into the Christmas mood. This year it was the Nutcracker. Next year, my goal is for it to be the Trans Siberian Orchestra. Sure I'll have to travel to see them....and apparently their shows are a hot item and sell out. But, I have a mission. So, lets see if I can actually swing locating and attending a performance next year.

One week until Christmas Eve - my favorite day of the year. (Yes, Christmas Eve and not Day is my favorite of the two).

Five Things

2006-12-15T12:24:00.000-04:00

Okay, so my friend Scott posted on his blog "Five Things You Don't Know About Me" and I was disappointed because, I knew all five facts about him. Realistically, I know that the chances of all five facts being new to everyone you talk to is slim. But, let's see how I do:

1. After having taken a 5 week course, I now know that I'm definitely not passionate about watercolours. I have a real hard time doing art in colour - I made fun of Sarah for years for being colour blind and I guess it's backfired because I suck at mixing and using colours. Karma.

2. I love this time of the year...Christmas is my absolute favorite! I put a lot of thought into my gift giving and I get SUPER excited when I think I've found a great gift for someone. Like Qortnee's gift this year - I wish I could be there when she opens it!

3. I'm thinking about buying a house or possibly even building one. I love my apartment, but I want a place that's mine, a place that is totally my own where I don't have to listen to the annoying people upstairs. Also, recently and only because of conversations with a good friend of mine, I really want a tin roof on part of my house. My ideal...a sunroom with a cozy daybed with a tin roof so, on raining days I can relax with a good book curled up on the daybed listening to the rain.

4. I love to fly on planes, but I hate flights. Yes, I know that doesn't make sense. I love flying - it's my favorite way of travel. It really scares some people, but I love just getting into a plane and knowing that someone else is getting me to my destination and I can sleep to pass the time. But, I hate being on planes...and I'm sure everyone does. They're uncomfortable and sometimes flights seem to take forever. Like next month, I'm going to Edmonton...Excited to be travelling to Alberta for work, not excited to be on a plane for such a long period of time. Maybe that's because I often travel by myself and rarely with people who could make the time go much faster.

5. I often consider going back to school. I have had a goal to start my masters before I turn 35, which is plenty of time. And frankly, I don't think I'm ready for my masters yet. I honestly doubt whether or not I'm intelligent enough to be writing a thesis. Doubting my own intelligence is common for me. I'd prefer to have a few life years under my belt before I started this degree. I have always thought that my masters was the next logical progression in my education. But, I now think that I really want to look into some form of museum/conservation studies. Aspects of my current job truly fasinate me. Then again, I did seriously think about computer school today too.

Okay...five things. Is any of it new?

Holiday Stress

2006-12-10T18:11:00.000-04:00

So, I think the holiday stress has hit me. I tried to distract myself - but I fell into a serious slump today. Why is it that we try so hard to make Christmas perfect, when realistically, is it ever?

I did, however, in my process of distraction, get my tree up and decorated (which I owe much thanks to my mom and especially my brother), got my Christmas cards signed and baked gingerbread men.

Thankfully, I have tomorrow off work as well. I'm planning on working on at least one art project and hopefully get out some concept sketches of a few others done. I really don't have too much else to blog about. Short to the point...if there is really any point at all. Oh yeah...don't stress. And in the spirit of gingerbread men - here is the dessert porn that we created at my office dinner party. Awww...we're classy...sigh.

Too much to do, too little time

2006-12-02T00:13:00.000-04:00

Natalie, a co-worker of mine, put it best when she said, "if there was 30 hours in a day I may be able to get everything done." That's exactly how I feel lately. I really need to get my arse in gear with Christmas shopping. I'm having such a hard time this year finding the right gifts for people. The only gift that I have to give that I'm super excited about is actually the gift I have for Qortnee. So, Q...consider yourself extremely lucky. I wish I could be there when you open this gift - but I'm sure I'll hear from you right away. That's how cool this gift is. I'm also being smart and not sending it for another couple weeks....cause I know you too well.

I have a few art projects on the go and I'm hoping I'll have time to complete them. I'm hoping that I can spend next weekend focussed totally on art. This weekend is a write off for me - working at the Christmas sale at work tomorrow then heading to Halifax on Sunday for a three day conference. But it'll be fun - I love tourism related events.

I had an extremely fun evening out last night however. Our office staff went out to a dinner theatre for our Christmas gathering. I, of course, flirted with the geek in the cast. What is wrong with me lately and having a serious attraction to those geeky guys? Christa would testify to that comment. (She hates the fact that I think Chris Garver is the hottest on Miami Ink when in her words "he's the biggest geek ever") My argument...I'd much rather have someone with intellect who I can converse with, than just another pretty face.

Speaking of pretty faces....check out my dates from last night. Yes, I said dates. Scott, Devin and I were all going solo, so I made them my dates. Too bad that I was just their stand-ins for their girlfriend and wife. In the end - I'm the pathetic single one who pretended to be on a date with the only two men in my office who were only solo because their significant others were unable to attend. Suck it up Princess....at least I can now say that in one evening I had two hot dates.

Newfies and Nature

2006-11-22T17:54:00.000-04:00

On Thursday I began my weekend with a wonderful night out with an old friend of mine- Jake was home from Alberta and he and I went out for karoke. No, he didn't convince me to get up on stage and sing. I let him do all the singing. And I must admit...he was my favorite singer of the evening all biases aside.

Well then I made my first ever trek to Newfoundland and I must say....they have a beautiful province! The drive from Deer Lake to Corner Brook, I'd have to say, is to date my favorite drive. The highway that runs through the Humber Valley is so beautiful. I'd love to see it in the autumn. I guess I'll just have to save my pennies so that next fall that may be an option. As much as I was relieved, I was also slightly disappointed I didn't see any moose.

Martha and I had a wonderful weekend living a completely opposite life that the normal newfies must lead. This fact was only reiterated when we were at the checkout at the grocery store talking about what we would be drinking if we did go out and the lady working the cash commented on our groceries: "Cooked roast chicken, ready made salad and ice cream for dessert. My kind of ladies - not wasting any time before you get to drinking tonight." I busted a gut thinking, who goes to Newfoundland and doesn't go out drinking??? Me and only me! Okay, so we did have drinks over dinner on Friday night, but other than that it was totally relaxed and a weekend of complete rejuvenation. Exactly what I needed.

Quiet night in....

2006-11-04T22:26:00.000-04:00

I've come to realize how much I love doing nothing. I am having a quiet night in, all by my lonesome, and I'm honestly loving it. Not that I dislike the company of my friends. But occasionally we all need a "me night". Sure I have things I could be doing, but instead, I'm laying on the couch, cuddled with a blanket, doing nada.

Speaking of blankets. My family has just decided to do something really special. As my few readers may know, we lost my gram this summer. Well, my uncle found someone who makes quilts and he and my mom put together a bunch of my gram's clothes and every family member who wants one can have one of my "gram's" quilts made for them. I think this is so touching and such a great idea. I always wanted a quilt made out of fun tshirts, but this is a much nicer idea.

So, I started watercolour class this week and obviously enjoy it enough to go out and buy some supplies. It's actually refuelled my dwindling artistic ambition. Now, I got big game plans for Christmas art projects. And I even seriously thought today that maybe I should start selling some of my art. Turn some of my photography into cards or something snazzy like that. Who knows.

I got a big honour this week. My friend's blog is always about the latest and greatest in technology but he decided that the "smile-its-halloween" gift I did for him was worthy of a non-techie blog. I decided to carve for him an Alice Cooper pumpkin. Why Alice Cooper? Well, because my friend is a fan and also because Cooper is creepy and what could scream halloween more than creepy? I am special (not in the short bus kinda way either).

Well, I guess that's it. I know....holy boring.

It's almost November!

2006-10-26T16:18:00.000-03:00

I don''t think I've every really looked forward to November before. Okay, maybe when I was organized and knew what I was buying Qortnee for her bday, or when we had a party planned for the Q, Tamzin and Amy. But, other than that...no. But, this year....boy am I ever! We are moving to our winter hours at work, which means every evening and weekend are mine without the fear of interruption! And....I also get to go to Newfoundland in Nov! My first trip to the rock and I can't wait!! I also get to see one of my many boyfriends in concert in Nov. I bought mom and me tickets to see Matt Dusk in Halifax. Woohoo.

What else is happening in the life of Crystal D? I start a watercolour course next week. Time to get back into art again. I desperately need the inspiration and since I'm paying for it, I'm sure to make the time! hehe

In less than two months it'll be Christmas!! "It's the most wonderful time of the year". Sure, that means I need to seriously start my Christmas shopping list and get on the go with any art projects. Sigh...something to fill my evenings and weekends (although, I would honestly much rather it being filled with a whole lot of nothing.)

Exactly what I'm going to do right now. Nothing. Evening off, phones off, computer off, lights off, and maybe a bath. Ahhh....sounds like the most amazing night ever.

Okay, that's the story morning glory. Nothing insightful, nothing educational...but you love it.

Drive by potato'ing

2006-10-19T22:42:00.000-03:00

As you may have guessed from the potato reference in the title, I was in PEI last week. There were potatoes all over the place - falling out of vehicles in front of my car (I even drove over one....poor lil spud). I was invited to attend a Parks Canada conference and was given a couple speaking opportunities. It seems so weird sometimes to think of myself as the person who has been invited to sit on a panel to speak about the care of museum collections. I would've busted a gut laughing if someone told me 10 years ago I'd be this big of a geek when I grew up.

Other than that, I've been doing the regular. My life has become pretty ordinary. I work, I sleep and rarely have ambition to do much of anything else. I seriously believe in the depression that professionals say people are susceptible to during this time of the year. They say that the reduction in daylight hours, the dreary weather, the fading of the brilliant autumn colours, are all factors leading people into a slump.

Lately it just seems acceptable to come home from work to a dark and cold apartment, grab a blanket and sit on the couch in the dark, avoiding the phone and internet. I wake up each day in the dark and return just as it's getting dark. I've only been out walking like one day in the past month and that makes me totally sick. I need motivation to get my arse in gear again. I came up with this wonderful master plan that I'd change at work and go out walking right after work. That lasted all of one time. Then I let life and my lack of motivation get in the way.

I sound so pathetic. The only thing that's truly stopping me from doing the after work walk is me. That's it...I'm starting back at the routine. It'll only make me feel better and the only one I affect by not doing it, is me. Ok...just as I get myself motivated to do something, I'm gonna go to bed. It's after 11pm and I have a meeting first thing in the morning. Sigh.

Thought I'd throw our new family picture in here though, just cause I love it so much. Kayne is growing up so fast. Dad asked for a pic of the kids - so we did just that. :D This does make me happy.

Quiet times in Truro

2006-09-27T18:26:00.000-03:00

Life has been about work lately - like that's actually something new. I had a quiet day at the office today actually...spent 80% of my day just getting my desk organized. Sounds boring to most people, but I love stuff like that. I know, I know...I'm a geek.

It's actually been a pretty decent week. I got pampered Monday night...came home to the service of the door being opened for me, a wonderfully set table, and incredibly delicious dinner and a DVD as a gift. It wasn't a special occasion - just because. But, I certainly did feel special! It's not a common occurance for someone to go completely out of their way to do something so great just for lil ole me. *BIG SMILES*

I have a "blue tongue date" with one of my favorite co-workers tomorrow! Scotty2hottie, as I affectionately refer to him, and I have established that there is an obvious need for (at least) bi-weekly outings that involve cold lagers or fancy smancy drinks. The blue tongue reference came from blue candies which we got the last time we went out and the questions that later followed when Scott and I returned to work with matching tongues. So, in the spirit of office bonding (sure it's just a fraction of the office - whatever)....BRING ON THE MARTINIS BABY! hehe

Other than that....nothing. I have my last weekend off for awhile coming up. I have no idea what I'm going to do. For some reason or another, I think my Mom told me of something I had to do. But I don't really recall. So, because I'm oblivious and it's not written on my calendar. Technically, I'm free to do nothing. Sigh...and I think that's exactly what I'll do. I had considered spending a day with my lil cousin Christian cause he cracks me up so much. Maybe, just maybe, I'll arrange for a little bit of family fun time. We'll see.

Ciao for now baby! Hope you, April and the whole animal fam are doing well, Q-bee!

Sometimes life gets in the way

2006-09-09T09:05:00.000-03:00

Life has been a little topsy turvy lately. Sadly, my Gram passed away last week - so that pretty much shook my world up for a few days....and technically still is. Then I got sick with an awful cold and all I want to do is lay in bed and sleep. My body is craving sleep and if I start going to bed any earlier, I'll have the same bed time as my 4 year old cousin. Pathetic and funny all at the same time.

My friends have been great though...makes me appreciate them more than they'll ever know. I've been able to call my good friends any hour of the day, got cookies delivered, people to keep me company and I know without this, I'd be totally lost and not near as strong as I was to get through the rough patch.

All the supper dates, the phone calls, and the fab lunch date with my CB friends were icing on the cake. I must say...my friends are great!

But right now, boy do I miss being at school. Uggh...the frustrations of September. How I crave being in a classroom at this time of the year. I think I must be still sick. HEHE!! We'll that's it for now. Ciao xo

Extremely short post

2006-08-15T23:39:00.000-03:00

The title says it all...I just got a new picture of Kayne and I love it. Had to share :D

Feeling out of sorts

2006-08-12T11:18:00.000-03:00

I don't know what it is lately, but I haven't been feeling like myself. I took a sick day this week from work cause my body wasn't feeling up to par and that seems to have since recovered. But, my mind isn't feeling up to par lately either. Normally on my days off, I'm total get up and go, things planned, lots to do. Not yesterday....I spent all day doing nothing. I had a list of things that I should be doing, but no desire to do them.

I just feel so blah. Like I'm totally in a rut and need to be rescued.

I wanted this blog to be longer, but I just got a call and I'm needed at the office. So, here goes another day.....I have Monday off. Maybe I'll run away Sunday night.....maybe.

Land of Potatoes

2006-08-01T22:28:00.000-03:00

Well...as Staind would say, "it's been awhile". Things have been a lil wonky lately. I don't know what wonky means, but I decided I wanted to use it. I went to the island over the weekend with a good friend of mine and boy was it nice to get away. Sure we didn't do anything spectacular...but that's the best part about PEI. You can do nothing and no one cares. That's why I'm so excited for my next big trip there next month....Woohoo to seeing Q (oh and the Black Eyed Peas). It's gonna be a grand old time!

Other than that, life hasn't changed much....work, eat, sleep, work, eat, sleep. My computer is MIA - I think it hates me. Its in the shop getting fixed, so I had to borrow an old laptop from work which I'm starting to feel isn't worth the headache. But, I needed it to stay in touch with the guys in Toronto. Our good friend Jason got hurt really badly in Korea a few days ago, he's still hanging on, we just hope and pray he fights all the way through this. Nothing worse than knowing someone close to you isn't doing well and you'd do anything to take away their pain and hurt, but know the reality of that is impossible.

That's how I felt last weekend too...my friend who went with me to PEI was in agony and it was apparent with every move he made. He probably got really sick of me saying, I wish I could make it better. So, I always debated the question, if I could have one super power what would it be.....my response tossed between being able to read people's mind or to be a fly on the wall. I've realized that I would much rather it be the power to heal. This is one power that could truly be considered a burden, but when I see or hear about people I love being hurt, the burden aspect would totally disappear.

Okay...enough of a tangent. I have to get some rest. I have an interview tomorrow morning for TV. I'm so Sam Jones....gotta love public relations. Ciao xo

Long time coming

2006-07-12T23:17:00.000-03:00

Wow...for the first time in a while I'm so happy to say that, I had a great day today! Work went smoothly...I actually had a chance to hide away in my office with very few distractions; I had my evaluation today, which went well and I received a raise today; I attended a gathering at Mom's house tonight to meet all the new members of mom's soon to be step family; and tomorrow is the first of 3 days off in a row!

Ron and Mom hosted a family gathering -which Ron ensured Mom need not lift a finger and therefore hired the most incredible caterer....the food was yummy! And I got to sit around and listen to my cousin Richard jam with one of the world's most foremost classical guitar players, Don Ross (who also just happens to be my future step-brother). There ended up being 45 of us in attendance....small family gathering....the Ross' making up 11 of that number and the rest being my family (Qortnee, I know you understand!) HAHA....good times.

And the past few days at work have been incredible. I met some wonderful people this week - even got asked to go on a road trip to Newfoundland for the weekend by a group of visitors! Gotta love it!

Well, I'm off...to veg, and enjoy my first night of "mini vacation". Tomorrow.... shopping, hairdresser's and drinks with the ladies. Sounds like a good start to me! I've also included a pic of me and mom, the happy new bride-to-be!

Diamonds and Drama

2006-07-02T11:46:00.000-03:00

Well...this has been an exciting week for the Dorey family. Mom got engaged this week to a great man who treats her like gold. That's right...Mom's getting married!! It looks like it might be a December wedding, if we can figure out where she's gonna have it....long story short she can't get married in the church without an annulment of her first marriage and that could take over a year. And these two crazy kids in love wanna get married right away. He wants a summer wedding...hello it's July. And I've convinced Mom that a Christmas wedding would be beautiful. We'll see. Either way, I get to help plan my Mom's wedding!! And she's gonna look so amazing. SMILES

The drama portion, is of course the ownership of her house. It's being given to me. That's right - I own my own house now. But, I don't want to move in until my lease is up here - which is May. And have to have the unfortunate conversation with Christopher on what he's gonna do. I know myself, I could never be a good roomate for Chris - I'd smother him worse than Mom would. But, I also don't want my brother living at home free loading off of me - cause really, who could afford that. But, I just keep telling myself...he has about a year to figure his stuff out, including learning how to afford to live in the real world. Afterall, that kid does make more money than I do, but spends 3 times the amount that I do too.

Well, I guess that's it for now. There's more drama - but I don't wanna blog about it. Ask me Q, and I'll tell ya. Toodles

Time to get some rest

2006-06-23T23:38:00.000-03:00

So, Grand Opening is over and it's time to get some much needed rest! I used some of my overtime to take the weekend off....two weekends off in a row! Nothing beats it! I have a friend from the Cape in town this weekend, so it gives me time to catch up with him...and plenty of time to veg out, get caught up on some much needed rest. I'm so looking forward to it!

Life has been pretty mundane lately. I got a new feature added to my bedroom thanks to the help of one of my good friends. Now, now Q...dont' take it as something completely dirty. I saw a sign awhile ago in a store here and fell in love with what it said, but it was a lil too country for me. But thanks to the world of ebay, I found exactly what I was looking for! It makes me so happy everytime I walk into my room. It's now what I like to refer to as being the only rule of my apt. I tried to take a picture of it....but its doesn't turn out that well in photos....but on the wall above my bed it says, Always Kiss Me Goodnight. So so cute.

And just because that photo didn't work, I thought I should include a photo nonetheless. Here's a recent picture of the boss. Yep, my nephew Kayne! He's getting so big....and look at his ears Q...just like his dad! hehe

Congrats Mommies!

2006-06-10T09:10:00.000-03:00

I just wanted to send out a big congrats to the new Cape Breton mommies! Q and April, I'm sorry our date didn't work out - that just means I really need to get my arse up to visit you now! But, I hope you and the boys are having a great time with lil Brixx. It's almost as if you guys have your own petting zoo. HEHE....so really...I'm gonna contact you Q and although I've been saying it for awhile, I'm coming to visit. Enough of this work-all-the-time crap. I need time for fun and only good old fashion roomate bonding will cure that!

Alright...back to reality. Sigh....escaping for a moment, albeit brief, is nice.

Happy Birthday to ME!

2006-05-28T13:41:00.000-03:00

Well yesterday was my bday and I had a blast....thanks to all my Truro friends who came out to party hardy with me...and to all my away friends for the well wishes! I don't have too much to write....but here's a couple of pics...one of the girls at Chevy's and the other is of my birthday present to myself. I'm in love with my new bed!

Old and grey...

2006-05-24T21:53:00.000-03:00

I'm old. It's official....I'm days away from my birthday and I've never felt older than I have lately. I'm excited when I can have early morning shifts and I get to go to bed early. I need something in my life to make me feel young again. Maybe my birthday night on the town will do that for me. As long as I don't do the "let's drink like we did in high school" night again....right Q?!?! We've learnt that's never a good idea!! EEEEEKK....I'll never touch Tropikiwi again in life.

Hehe....other than that life is pretty quiet. I been spending my evenings this week quiet at home watching movies....nothing beats curling up on the couch after a long day at the office. It certainly makes me happy.....or at least satisfied....happy would be warm summer weather and actually getting to see some sunlight.

I have scheduled myself a long weekend...and boy am I excited! I think I'm gonna go somewhere fun during the day Saturday. Mom and I are doing a birthday brunch, then maybe I'll take a mini roadtrip somewhere for the afternoon....gotta be back for my bday celebration! I'm sure there will be plenty of entertaining stories after the weekend....I'll blog again then! Toodles :)

New schedule & time off

2006-05-08T10:04:00.000-03:00

Well, starting May 1st we opened our doors to the public 7 days a week. So my work schedule for the month is totally messed up. I can't wait for June when I go to a normal two week rotation. Because I had to do the May schedule in March trying to forsee where we'd need the most staffing, it was rough...and I'm bounced all around the week. Ugggh...it's not leaving me enough time to get things done.

Other than that....I attended the huge Saltscapes Expo a couple weekends ago in Halifax. Its the big tourism expo where NS gets to promote itself. It was so much fun....mind you I was so tired of smiling all day...but, I really love the tourism industry. AND I got to meet Michael Smith, (he's a Chef with shows on the Food Network from PEI) one of my two fav chefs!!

I had my first real dinner party in my new place - 6 friends came over and we had lots of food and lots of laughs. It was great. I so love entertaining. Ok....I just love not being alone all the time. hehe! I did however spend some good alone time on my day off, Saturday working on a painting. It was my first time working on a canvas...I was so nervous....and my second time working with acrylic...so I had no idea how it would turn out. I still don't know how I feel about th piece...it's starting to grow on me, I think. Q, you know...I'm just far too critical of my own work. But....here it is....this is my first canvas piece.

I passed!

2006-04-26T23:27:00.000-03:00

We got our exam results back today and I passed! I won't find out my mark until Friday, but regardless...pass, pass, pass. Woohoo....and today our artifacts came. So I got to spend the day watching pieces of a few hundred years of Mi'kmaq history being installed into our exhibit cases! Great day at work. I'm exhausted.

I'm looking forward to the weekend eventhough I have to work Saturday promoting the centre at an expo. But, hopefully it will be fun.....Saltscapes....huge tourism expo in Halifax. And my dream man, Michael Smith, is going to be doing some cooking demostrations. Maybe I'll pick myself up a man....sure he's married, but minor details considering he's a chef. heehee

I'm absolutely loving having my own place again...isn't it great Qortnee! I feel so grown up again. Grown up and ready for bed...time to hit the sack. Why is it, when we're young we want to stay up late, and when we get older, we wish we could go to bed earlier? Fun being an adult! G'night!

Got a new home!

2006-04-11T23:01:00.000-03:00

So, I finally found a place! That's right boys and girls...Crystal D has herself a bachelorette pad!! Yeehaw. I've started moving in a few odds and ends but will become an official resident by the end of the weekend. So so so excited. I'm quickly finding out how expensive it is to get a grown up apartment though...ugghhh...I'm gonna be broke for awhile, so I'm going out partying now. LOL

Q...I can't wait to show you the pics...I'm such a young professional now...and I have the digs and business cards to prove it. hehe

Ok...that's it for now. I have an exam on Thursday for national certification in Heritage Interpretation...I know...a whole lot of jargon. But, it's a big test that's extremely important to my job. Gotta study...Ciao Amigos!

Fast approaching...eeekkkk!

2006-03-28T23:12:00.000-04:00

So the date that we have scheduled for the offical opening of our doors at work is fast approaching. May 1st is when we will be open to the public....when I have to have all the programming in place...rehearsed, tested and ready to go. Can we say full plate?!! Needless to say I'm a bit stressed and finding out there's not enough hours in the day. I had hoped to schedule an evening to stay in the office and work, but my next free evening is Saturday....and I am not spending a Saturday in the office....no way, no how.

I've made an official decision that I'm going to start actively looking at apartments instead of just talking about it! HAHA....I know, right now Q you're busting a gut laughing at me. But you probably know me better than most people and know that is so something that I'd totally do. Sure, living at home for free is great....but I so need my own space. When mom starts joking about what I do for extra-curricular activities, it's time to get my own place!

Other than that...life is pretty much the same. I would like to take a mini-vacation before I start in full swing in May. So we gotta start planning Q....ask the roomies if I can come crash! Boozefest 2006...it's been far too long!

Travelling bunny

2006-03-10T18:30:00.000-04:00

I've just returned from a business trip in Quebec City on Aboriginal Tourism. So great. It was so cool being at a conference where I was part of the crowd, the discussion....not just there cause one or both of my parents had to attend. LOL I feel like such a grown up now.....networking, handing out business cards. So exciting. I landed safe and sound late Wednesday night and then woke up to the most amazing Thursday.

I had the rare opportunity to spend an hour with Ruth Whitehead going through the artifacts that the Nova Scotia Museum has in storage. For those of you who don't know, Ruth had devoted about 40 years of her life to studying Mi'kmaw History and has been a curator for the NS family of museums and had published many books on the topic. I got to see up close and personal (not behind a glass barrier) Mi'kmaw basketry, quillwork, and birchbark items dating back some 200 years. AMAZING is the only thing I could say. I know, some may think I'm a total geek....but it is an incredible feeling to be standing in the presence of so much history knowing that these things were made by my ancestors and are even more beautiful up close then one would ever imagine.

Other than that....when I'm not emmersed in something tourism related, then I'm apparently living up to my new name as Truro's bar star and I'm partying it up at Chevy's. LOL.....gotta keep life entertaining in this quiet town. And don't you worry your little heart....I've been doing a friggin good job of keeping it entertaining....just ask my friend Christa...she could probably write a novel at this point in the game! LOL.....ciao amigo!

Painting and partying

2006-03-01T00:16:00.000-04:00

So this weekend was one of my favorites in a long time. I woke up Sat am and thought....I want to paint today. So I went into town and bought some wall paint and all the other important things. I spent the rest of the day Saturday painting the main bathroom. That evening the girls called me and asked me to hit up Chevy's with them. Of course I said yes...and am I glad I did. I had a blast!! One of my favorite times at Chevron's...no doubt. I barely knew anyone there...and I don't know what made it so over the top great...but it was!

Then on Sunday, I finished off the paint job. Attached is the picture of the finished product. I love it and am so exicted that it turned out as well as it did. When I went into the project Sat am....the walls were white....the entire bathroom was just white. I wanted to try the faux stone wall look...and it turned out better than I could've ever imagined. Ok...enough of a blog for tonight...I'm tired. Good night....

A million freakin bucks!

2006-02-22T21:54:00.000-04:00

I got my hair done today and I feel like a million bucks....hense the title of the blog. Just a trim and some foils (they're basically black, but have fixed a hair colour that I was hating!) There's nothing I love more than when nothing seems to be going your way, to spend sometime being pampered. I love going to the hairdresser....no doubt.

I'm having a pretty good week. I hung out with my old friend, Sharkey, who I haven't seen in about 5 years. It was wonderful catching up....and finding out all the secrets behind the culinary world. I also got a lot of my chest by venting to a friend last night (thanks Steve....if you're reading this). Somedays you just need to know that someone is listening...there was nothing he could do, but just knowing that I could clear my mind helped. What would I do without my friends?? Well, really...I'd just keep a lot of things bottled up....that's what I would do.

Q, I friggin miss you. Especially when I was looking through my memory box the other day and found some great things from VH. An invite to a sleep over, the stupid story book, pics of my 1st yr party with the headbands, this list could go on for awhile really. But you know what I miss the most? Bedtime stories. I ask people to tell me stories all the time, but none compare to you. So, sometime soon, we're gonna have to get together....I'm coming to visit baby! We'll make plans for a visit...sound good? Ok, enough for now...venting....sigh....I love it.

It's been awhile...

2006-02-19T00:45:00.000-04:00

I have been so busy with work, that I haven't had time to think about anything else. All I want to do when I get off at 5 is sleep...and usually that's exactly what I do...take a lil cat nap.

The job is fun though...getting lots done and been given more projects. I'm heading to Quebec City in a couple weeks for an Aboriginal Tourism Conference!! Gotta love business trips! I'm also working on the PR for a few items (I feel like Samantha Jones from Sex and the City...heehee). I got to make out with a dummy last week...HAHA...CPR/Emergency First Aid training. Literally a dummy, not so literal on the making out part. And went on a tour of the North Shore of NS...museums, galleries, shops, and a winery (nothing beats getting paid to sample wine)!!

Been spending a lot of my free time doing art work (yah!) and doing some comparison shopping for the new TV I have to buy. Thanks to a couple guys I know, the decision is becoming harder and harder...too many choices, too many things to consider....I joke, they've both been great at offering good advice. Major decision...DLP or LCD...in the end I've decided LCD....for girly reasons and I stand by them. (Crystal D is in the name....why wouldn't I choose that option?)

Well, I guess that's it for now. Nothing interesting, nothing educational....but it's a post.

Quotation....simple

2006-02-09T22:50:00.000-04:00

No major blog....nothing new to say. Life is all about work. So instead....this is a quotation from Sex and the City that I love. And...I think it's totally me right now....outside of work.

"Later that day I got to thinking about relationships. There are those that open you up to something new and exotic, those that are old and familiar, those that bring up lots of questions, those that bring you somewhere unexpected, those that bring you far from where you started, and those that bring you back. But the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you find someone to love the you you love, well, that's just fabulous."

It's been a month

2006-01-28T21:41:00.000-04:00

It's been a whole month since I started this job....and guess what...I LOVE IT!! I'm having so much fun, meeting great people and learning so much. I was just offered the opportunity to help coordinate the publicity for regalia that is being repatriated from Australia. It's unbelievable to be part of such an amazing event....bringing home a Chief's regalia from the 1800's to be housed in our exhibits.

Other than that, things are randy dandy here on my end. 2006 is starting off pretty darn good....I wish I had more time to do art work. But I've realized, I need to start making the time. So I think tomorrow afternoon will be my "cut off the world and do some art" day. LOL...I know, I'm a geek. But I need some veg out, totally me, totally creative time. I was sketching out an idea last weekend for a floorcloth (Q....why aren't you closer so we can make one together this time) and it gave me an idea for a complete original design which I've sketched out and am so excited to try!!! I know that I won't get to that tomorrow.....but maybe another weekend.

I hung out last night with a completely new crew. People I've grown up knowing, but never really hung out with. Fun times, let me tell you. I really had a blast! I'm glad that Mise'l agreed to go with me to the party....he's always partied with them and since we've known each other since we were tiny tots, he was my comfort zone. Sure we got the 20 questions when we left together....but that's just part of the entertainment aspect.

Ok...time to go do something productive like re-watch Memento. This great guy I know said it was a must see and lent me his copy. If you haven't checked it out, do so...he was right. I think I need to watch it a second time...it's presented in such a unique way that I feel like I missed something.

Stupid Future Shop!

2006-01-14T10:13:00.000-04:00

So, I took my laptop into Future Shop before Christmas because the burner wouldn't work and there was something wrong with the plug. Well, they sent it away to be fixed and I finally got to pick it up last night. Buddy at the counter was really proud and impressed with the work done both by FS and the HP repair company. His words, "they really went above and beyond what we sent it in to be fixed for. I was impressed that the put the extra work into it!" And of course I said, "extra work?? Whatta mean?" He replies with, "Oh, they put a new keyboard on, replaced your hard drive and there's a note here that you have to restore it. OH wait...nevermind, I already took care of that for you!" Yah...you can hear the enthusiasm in his voice as my heart drops and I look at him and say, "You f*&%in did what?"

Crystal was not a happy camper, by any stretch of the imagination! Everything lost. He's like well, you shoulda made copies of everything before you brought it in. While shrugging his shoulders. And I'm thinking, HOW COULD I HAVE MADE COPIES OF EVERYTHING IF MY BURNER WAS BROKEN, HENSE THE REASON FOR BRINGING IT IN....but all I could get out of my mouth, was.... J - f'in - C...f#&k, s&*t, F#&K....over and over again. I questioned why they didn't inform me before they made such huge work changes, and he said "sometimes we call the customer and sometimes they don't." It took everything in me to keep myself from jumping over his counter and leaving sneaker marks in his forehead.

Great Friday night...now I get to spend all weekend trying to recoup my losses while trying to get organized for work on Monday....spotlight time begins. Thank heavens I've planned to go out tonight...I need a drink already!

Work, work...and work

2006-01-11T20:01:00.000-04:00

So, I started my new job and so far so good I guess. Somedays I leave there so completely overwhelmed and other days smiling. Good thing is, regardless of how my day ends, I'm still really excited for the project. Being a "boss" seems strange. Sure, I have no super powers in my position, but it looks like I will have 4 employees that I'm responsible for training. That's what makes me nervous. They start on Monday, and I'm hoping that come 5pm Monday, everything will look like it will flow as smooth as butter.....if not....I'll be needing that vacation to come see you in CB a lot sooner than expected Q. Hehe

Other than that....there's been a few ups, downs, twist and turns in the daily happenings of Crystal D....but nothing I can't handle, adjust to, or ignore. LOL I'm going out Sat night for a good old night on the town with a few Truro ladies....so let's see how messy it gets. Kinda bland....but I'm tired....I haven't been in the mood to blog lately...but don't worry Q-bee...you're not gonna lose me yet. HAHA

Oh yah....this is a pic of my new nephew!!!

I'm an Auntie!!

2006-01-03T19:47:00.000-04:00

Chris and Gwen had a baby late last night!! A little boy named Kayne (like Dean "Superman" Caine...not the Golddigger rapper). And I can't wait to meet him! She had him in the Miramichi and should be down this way on the weekend. I started my new job today, so I couldn't necessarily ask for time off already! LOL

That's it for now...not in the mood to write!

"525,600 minutes, how do you measure a year..."

2005-12-28T18:41:00.000-04:00

Well Christmas has come and gone and ringing in the New Year is only days away. I seem to always reflect at this time of the year and think, did I make any changes, do anything exciting this year? Yeah...there were a few things that I can look back on and be proud of. Which is always a good feeling going into a new year.

I'm going to start 2006 off as an auntie...which is cool. My first neice or nephew. And it's all becoming so real...a baby seat, clothes and cradle in the house really changed the feeling of a house which has had only adults living it in for the past few years. Ok, my bro isn't a total adult, but he's trying. And being a daddy will make him grow up mighty quick! LOL

I've tried my hand at a few new career choices which has made the decision for what I want to be when I grow up even harder. Growing up sucks. I wish I would have appreciated how simple life was when I was a kid. How I wish I could take back the summers when Sharon and I tried to schedule almost every afternoon off of our jobs so we could spend it floating in my pool, at the beach or shopping. Ahh...the days. Think my new job will give me every afternoon off in the summer? Meh....summer can't be that busy in a tourist bureau.

Or how my biggest concern was where we were gonna party on the weekends and the only stressful thing I had to coordinate was how we were all gonna get there. Now since most of my greatest friends have spread themselves out all over the world, keeping in touch seems like it's damn near impossible somedays. But, I guess, it makes the times we do see each other that much more entertaining!

Either way...as another year approaches us...I want to say Happy New Year and I hope that 2006 brings lots of love, luck and happiness to those who are close to our hearts - no matter how far away!

Great friend, good food, good atmosphere.

2005-12-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

My title says it all....that's what makes for a perfect day catching up with an old friend. Sarah and I met in the city and went out for lunch at the Shoe Shop...we snuck in through the back door to avoid the paparazzi....which makes the journey even more entertaining. I love spending time with Sarah. She's one of those friends who don't know how inspirational they are. She's so amazingly talented and I feel like I'm in a creative frame of mind when we hang out. There are 3 people in my life who inspire my creative side and she is one of them. I love that she refers to me as "artsy". I have just started to consider myself an artist.

I know, I sound retarded (like a turkey - in Q's case). But doing artwork for fun and calling yourself an artist are, in my mind, two different leagues all together. So, when I'm hanging out with my artists friends and discussing artwork, galleries, etc. I can see that I probably am in the same league as them and I think the appreciation for my own artwork is developing and also helping me to get there.

On another note...Christmas is almost here! Tomorrow is our family's turkey dinner....30 plus people will be here tomorrow evening to partake in some festive morsals. LOL I can't wait. As much as having a large family can sometimes have aspects that are annoying, I couldn't imagine spending Christmas any other way! Having a wonderful meal with my grandparents, mom, bro, uncles, aunts, cousins, friends, etc. is what Christmas is to me. No gift is ever as great as spending time with the ones you love. My Christmas wish is for all those I care about to have a happy and safe holiday season and to know how much they are appreciated. Happy Holidays :)

Crazy times...

2005-12-19T10:54:00.000-04:00

What a crazy weekend. I spent 12 hours on Saturday doing photography for a friends wedding. I hope the pictures turn out...it's scary being a photographer on such an important day. The bride looked beautiful. I've never truly appreciated a Christmas wedding before, but the red dresses and all the Christmas trimmings made it so incredible. Truly a magical time of the year to get married.

So, it's finally official for real....I got the job. No more of the yes, no, maybe crap. I start Jan. 3rd at 9am. They wanted to meet with me today to give me a tour of the building which I was looking forward to as much as I didn't want to talk business today, but they had to cancel because my boss was called out of town. Meh....that means I now get to enjoy the next two weeks of vacation. Back to the grind in the new year.

I'm going to visit Sarah this week and I'm sooo excited to see her. It sucks that most of my friends live in Fredericton and I barely get to see them any more. But now that Qortnee is back in NS, I'm already excited for my trip to the cape to see her!!!

Scary news...my bro was in a car accident on Sat night...he's fine....truck is a mess though. Nothing is worse then showing up on the scene of an accident and not knowing what you'll find. (It happened just up the road...we were just going to bed, heard his truck leave the yard and heard a squeal and big smash 2 seconds later...mom and I were out the door and on the scene in a blink of an eye) He took out a fire hydrant but just missed a telephone pole so he's super lucky. I think he's learnt to slow down a bit and be more careful with icy roads.

K...guess that's it for now. Q, I don't know if you have access to read this, but I'm blogging anyway....and I don't really think anyone else reads it. LOL

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2005-12-12T14:43:00.000-04:00

Spent yesterday putting up the tree and decorating the house. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in my neck of the woods...but do I feel like I'm ready?? Of friggin course not. I have to make a do to list and actually stick to it this week. I got invited to the office Christmas party in Fredericton this week, but I don't want to go....A) Because I have to much else I could be doing; B) Because it won't be the same being in F'ton when I can't go visit everyone and C)Because it's also really weird being in F'ton and not having a place to call home anymore.

Other than that, life in Truro is boring. I'm stressed, cranky and I feel bad but I'm yelling at mom all the time. She does little things that make me angry and not having any sense of security right now really bugs me therefore she gets the raw end of the deal and gets yelled at. I know it's wrong...I know I shouldn't do it. And saying I'm sorry while snapping at her really doesn't make it any better.

The problem is I keep getting "yes, maybe, well probably" about the job that I'm suppose to start in January and I'm starting to doubt if I really want it at all. But, I have no other obvious opportunity so I can't really refuse it. And I don't know if its the job or if it's because of this crap that I've had to go through to even land this job that's making me doubt it. So much to think about, and I was fooling myself to think I'd have the time to do any thinking over the holidays.

Sometimes I really hate when I feel that life is being sucked out of me. I wish I could find something to do that I love. I miss being creative, I miss doing work where I'm proud of my accomplishments, where there's a big end result which shows me and those I love how hard I worked. Maybe I should give this job a fighting chance. Maybe it will end up being something I will love. I can see that there's only a few more hoops that I need to jump through in order to make this final. I guess for today that means my decision is to keep jumping.

Ramblings, really....

2005-12-04T12:14:00.000-04:00

So, sometimes I really hate weekends in Truro. I did some Christmas shopping, put up the lights on the house with my bro and his friend, help mom put up her Christmas village, and decorated the tree at the office. But, I'm so not in the Christmas spirit. I've been so blah this weekend it's not even fit. I have a family dinner today, cause my new baby cousin Paige is being baptized.....and I don't even want to go. I half think it's because I was so excited to take some time off in Dec to do some art work, and do the things that make me happy. But, I just got asked to do some crappy filing for a couple days next week. Normally I'd say no, but the guy who asked was a co-worker of mine, and he's the nicest guy ever. So, I'd feel bad saying no.

And to top it all off...I just found out that Martha isn't going to be home most of the break. I really was looking forward to some down time with Mar....especially where she's studying art this year at college...I thought she'd be my creative inspiration. But one of her gifts is a ticket to go to visit her bf in Switzerland until Christmas Eve. Boourns. Great gift...I know I'm being selfish. Let's build a bridge and get over it. Sorry for the sad blog....and I'm not trying to have a pity party, I just needed to vent. Thanks for listening. CD xo

Update

2005-12-01T20:29:00.000-04:00

Okay...since this is my first blog, I guess it will be a little more detailed that what it normally would be. Q...I won't be blogging everyday...unless I have something interesting to say. But since our lives are so busy, I figured this would be a good way to keep updated on each other's lives.

So, I spend last weekend in Toronto for the Canadian Aboriginal Festival. Which I've been dying to go to for the past few years. I was amazing. I didn't want it to end. I was excited to home home to my own bed, but I didn't want the music, dancing and the feeling to ever go away. It made my officially decide to spend the winter working on my own regalia for dancing. I may not be brave enough to do the powwow trail and dance at every powwow, but at least I'll know that I made something so special to my culture myself.

I also have been spending a lot of time work. Maybe too much. I really wanted to get to Fredericton to visit everyone this fall, but I just didn't have the time. I'm not complaining...I thought I was going to be unemployed as of the end of September. But it's been just the opposite. Since the award show ended, I kept working at Ulnooweg getting all their stuff together for the launch of their new look, got hired on as an assistant for a project with Aboriginal musicians. And spend the past few days working as a Production Assistant for a video that is being produced. Oh....and I helped add some french subtitles to AIDS awareness commercials which may be going network soon. CRAZINESS! But I'm loving it.

It also looks like I'll have a real career starting in January. Short version of a long story...it's not 100% yet, but I've been told that I am in line for the position of Aboriginal Interpretive Coordinator. Basically I'll be running a Mi'kmaq museum out of Truro's new tourist bureau. Insane part is, I'll be a boss and have to help create training for my employees aka "interpreters".

I tried to work my contracts so I'd have some time off in December to do some art work, relax and try to get some sense of normalcy in my life. But it looks like I might have another contract coming up and apparenlty someone else is trying to get ahold of me to do some work for him. I'm glad I have something to spend my days doing...really....cause Truro does get mighty boring!

Ok...that's it for now. I guess that's update enough. Have a good one :)